10 things no one ever tells you about face masks

Fancy introducing a face mask to your skincare routine but don’t know where to start? Read our top 10 tips to help you get started.

10 things no one ever tells you about face masks

1

There’s no one size fits all

Face masks come in many textures and formulations, each designed to target a specific concern. If you’ve not found a mask particularly effective previously, you may have been using one not suited to your skin type. Read on to learn more about the ingredients to look out for.

2.

You don’t need to leave a mask on for as long as you think

10 minutes is actually all the time that’s needed for a mineral or clay mask to work its magic. Any more than this, and it will start to crack and take precious oils from your skin. Remove it with a hot cloth in circular movements for a last touch of exfoliation.

3.

Apart from sheet masks, that is…

Sheet masks are used to hydrate to skin, and are packed with moisturising ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerine. As such, you can leave them on for as long as you like, but 20-30 minutes is usually adequate.

4.

Volcanoes make good exfoliators

Volcanic rock is often used in mineral mask formulas as it’s really great at exfoliating and bringing luminosity to the skin. It creates a mechanical peeling effect on the skin that gently removes dead skin and eliminates impurities. Try one next time you need an instant glow.

5.

Clay is great for combatting breakouts

Natural clay masks have become really popular, largely due to the impressive way they absorb sebum and impurities from the skin. Many masks use clays such as Kaolins, which is sourced in England, while others such as Bentonite are found further afield in Arizona and California.

6.

Mineral masks can calm and cool the skin too

Mineral masks can also be super hydrating too, especially when they contain ingredients such as vitamin B3, Glycerin and Mineralizing Water. Formulations such as this will give dehydrated skin a shot of freshness.

7.

Most masks can be used more than once a week

Most face masks are designed to be used from one to three times a week, depending on how active the ingredients are within them. As a general rule, exfoliating masks should usually only be used once or twice a week, while more soothing and hydrating masks can be used more liberally. Be sure to always check the packaging for guidance and listen to your skin.

8.

Multi-masking can help treat multiple concerns
Multi-masking is one of the hottest beauty trends of the moment, and it’s a simple way to target multiple skin concerns at once. For example, you can apply a clay mask across the T-zone to absorb sebum, while a hydrating, cooling mask may be better at treating dry cheeks and a peeling mask is more effective at treating congestion across the chin.

9.

Masks aren’t just for the face

A very common skincare mistake is forgetting the neck and décolletage. These areas need just as much care as the face and can suffer from dryness and fine lines too.

10.

Make sure you remove the mask properly

Make sure that you remove all traces of your mask, using a hot towel to avoid leaving any messy bits behind. (If not removed properly, a mask can clog the pores and cause congestion, undoing all of your hard work). Finally, spritz a touch of Thermal Mineralizing Water over the face and neck for an extra touch of refreshment.

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